In the Maknoon training doctrine, we believe that a fighter must train as they will fight. On the real battlefield, the enemy is neither stationary nor moving in a predictable manner. Based on this principle, we have developed and integrated one of the world’s most advanced training systems across all our shooting ranges: Tactical Autonomous Robotic Systems (TARS). These robots are not merely moving targets; they are semi-intelligent adversaries, designed to break all traditional training patterns and place the trainee in confrontation with an unpredictable opponent.
Scientific and Military Importance: Why Mobile Robots?
Breaking Predictive Loops
Scientifically, when the human mind is trained on targets that appear and move in a repetitive pattern (even a complex one), it begins to anticipate movement and react based on that anticipation rather than a genuine response. The robots we develop move randomly and interactively, forcing the trainee’s mind to remain in a constant state of “tactical alertness,” analyzing movement, aiming, and firing based on real-time and changing data, just like in a real engagement.
Simulating an Aggressive Adversary
Unlike targets that move laterally, our robots are programmed to perform aggressive behaviors. The robot can directly attack the shooter’s position, maneuver to take cover, or move laterally while firing (virtually). This forces the trainee to cope with the pressure of an adversary closing the distance and posing an immediate threat, which is vital training for close-quarters combat scenarios.
Training in Shooting and Performing Under Physical Pressure
Hunting or maneuvering against a robot that moves unpredictably forces the trainee to move and shoot simultaneously (shoot on the move), and to manage their breathing and effort, adding a layer of physical realism that stationary targets do not provide. Maknoon’s Role in Development and Innovation:
We don’t just use technology, we create it.
Our leadership in this field lies not only in using robots, but also in designing and developing them in-house to meet the most precise training requirements.
Our role includes:
- Developing Behavioral AI: The robot’s “brain” is created by our engineers. We develop the software that gives robots the ability to move randomly, simulate basic tactics, and interact with the trainee’s position, making each training scenario a unique and unrepeatable experience.
- Robust Platform Engineering: We design and manufacture the physical structure of robots to be able to operate in the harshest open and closed field conditions. Our robots feature an armored structure to protect vital components, powerful drive systems (wheels or tracks) for movement across various terrains, long-lasting batteries, and a modular target carrier that can hold wooden stakes or mannequins while stationary or moving.
- Seamless Integration with Field Systems: Our robots are not separate units, but rather an integral part of the field ecosystem. They are centrally controlled from the control room, and their movements can be integrated with the appearance of fast targets and sound and light effects to create a seamless and harmonious combat scenario.